U.S. patent application number 10/378001 was filed with the patent office on 2004-03-11 for medical device status information system.
Invention is credited to Edwards, D. Craig.
Application Number | 20040049233 10/378001 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 31997160 |
Filed Date | 2004-03-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040049233 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Edwards, D. Craig |
March 11, 2004 |
Medical device status information system
Abstract
In general, the invention is directed to management of status
information from a plurality of emergency medical devices, such as
AEDs. A system may include one or more medical devices associated
with one or more docking stations. The medical devices and docking
stations may communicate with one another and with a remote unit. A
medical device or a docking station in the system may acquire
status information and may communicate the status information to
the remote unit, which may serve as a central point for collecting
and aggregating status information pertaining to medical devices
and docking stations in the system. The remote unit may present the
status information to a person via an input/output device, may
maintain a status log for the devices in the system, and may
interrogate the devices in the system for status information.
Inventors: |
Edwards, D. Craig; (Fall
City, WA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
SHUMAKER & SIEFFERT, P. A.
8425 SEASONS PARKWAY
SUITE 105
ST. PAUL
MN
55125
US
|
Family ID: |
31997160 |
Appl. No.: |
10/378001 |
Filed: |
February 28, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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60409734 |
Sep 11, 2002 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
607/5 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61N 1/3931
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
607/005 |
International
Class: |
A61N 001/39 |
Claims
1. A method comprising: acquiring first status information from a
self-diagnostic routine; acquiring second status information from
an emergency medical device; and communicating the first status
information and the second status information to a remote unit.
2. The method of claim 1, further comprising presenting at least a
portion of the first status information and the second status
information to a person.
3. The method of claim 1, in which acquiring the second status
information comprises: submitting an interrogation to the medical
device; and acquiring the second status information in response to
the interrogation.
4. The method of claim 3, in which acquiring the second status
information further comprises receiving the interrogation from the
remote unit before submitting the interrogation to the medical
device.
5. The method of claim 1, in which acquiring the second status
information comprises receiving the second status information from
the medical device in accordance with one or more wireless
communication protocols.
6. The method of claim 5, in which the wireless communication
protocols comprise at least one of Bluetooth, IEEE 802.11a, IEEE
802.11b, IEEE 802.11g, and the HomeRF standard.
7. The method of claim 1, in which communicating the first status
information and the second status information to the remote unit
comprises establishing communication with the remote unit via a
communication network.
8. The method of claim 7, in which the communication network
comprises at least one of an alarm network, a telephone network, a
local area network, a cellular network, a wireless network, a wide
area network, a global computer network and an integrated services
digital network.
9. The method of claim 1, in which the medical device includes an
external defibrillator.
10. The method of claim 1, in which the medical device includes an
automated external defibrillator.
11. A method comprising: receiving an interrogation for emergency
medical device status information; acquiring the status information
from a self-diagnostic routine; and communicating the status
information to a remote unit.
12. The method of claim 1 1, further comprising presenting at least
a portion of the status information to a person.
13. The method of claim 11, in which receiving the interrogation
for status information comprises receiving the interrogation from
the remote unit.
14. The method of claim 11, in which receiving the interrogation
for status information comprises receiving the interrogation from a
docking station.
15. The method of claim 11, in which communicating the status
information to the remote unit comprises establishing communication
with the remote unit via a communication network.
16. The method of claim 15, in which the communication network
comprises at least one of an alarm network, a telephone network, a
local area network, a cellular network, a wireless network, a wide
area network, a global computer network and an integrated services
digital network.
17. The method of claim 11, in which communicating the status
information to the remote unit comprises establishing communication
with a docking station in accordance with one or more wireless
communication protocols.
18. The method of claim 17, in which the wireless communication
protocols comprise at least one of Bluetooth, IEEE 802.11a, IEEE
802.11b, IEEE 802.11g, and the HomeRF standard.
19. The method of claim 11, in which emergency medical device
status information comprises at least one of data indicative of a
fault, data indicative of low battery power, data indicative of
battery failure, and data indicative of the end of a shelf life of
a component of the medical device.
20. A method comprising: receiving emergency medical device status
information from a plurality of emergency medical devices; and
presenting at least a portion of the status information to a
person.
21. The method of claim 20, further comprising generating an alarm
as a function of the status information from at least one of the
medical devices.
22. The method of claim 20, further comprising transmitting an
interrogation for the status information to the medical
devices.
23. The method of claim 20, further comprising transmitting an
interrogation for the status information to at least one docking
station associated with at least one of the medical devices.
24. The method of claim 20, further comprising: receiving docking
station status information from a docking station associated with
at least one of the medical devices; and presenting at least a
portion of the docking station status information to a person.
25. The method of claim 20, further comprising recording the status
information in a status log.
26. The method of claim 20, in which emergency medical device
status information comprises at least one of data indicative of a
fault, data indicative of low battery power, data indicative of
battery failure, and data indicative of the end of a shelf life of
a component of the medical device.
27. A method comprising: transmitting an interrogation for status
information to a plurality of emergency medical devices; and
receiving the status information from the medical devices in
response to the interrogation.
28. The method of claim 27, further comprising generating an alarm
as a function of the status information from at least one medical
device.
29. The method of claim 27, further comprising presenting at least
a portion of the received status information to a person.
30. The method of claim 27, further comprising: transmitting an
interrogation for docking station status information to a plurality
of docking stations; and receiving the docking station status
information from the docking stations in response to the
interrogation for docking station status information.
31. The method of claim 30, further comprising presenting at least
a portion of the docking station status information to a
person.
32. The method of claim 27, further comprising recording the status
information in a status log.
33. A computer-readable medium comprising instructions for causing
a programmable processor to acquire first status information from a
self-diagnostic routine; acquire second status information from an
emergency medical device; and communicate the first status
information and the second status information to a remote unit.
34. The medium of claim 33, the instructions further causing the
processor to present at least a portion of the first status
information and the second status information to a person.
35. The medium of claim 33, in which the instructions causing the
processor to acquire the second status information comprise
instructions causing the processor to: submit an interrogation to
the medical device; and acquire the second status information in
response to the interrogation.
36. The medium of claim 35, in which the instructions causing the
processor to acquire the second status information comprise
instructions causing the processor to receive the interrogation
from the remote unit before submitting the interrogation to the
medical device.
37. The medium of claim 33, in which the instructions causing the
processor to acquire the second status information comprise
instructions causing the processor to receive the second status
information from the medical device in accordance with one or more
wireless communication protocols.
38. The medium of claim 37, in which the wireless communication
protocols comprise at least one of Bluetooth, IEEE 802.11a, IEEE
802.11b, IEEE 802.11g, and the HomeRF standard.
39. The medium of claim 33, in which the instructions causing the
processor to communicate the first status information and the
second status information to the remote unit comprise instructions
causing the processor to establish communication with the remote
unit via a communication network.
40. The medium of claim 39, in which the communication network
comprises at least one of an alarm network, a telephone network, a
local area network, a cellular network, a wireless network, a wide
area network, a global computer network and an integrated services
digital network.
41. The medium of claim 33, in which the medical device is an
external defibrillator.
42. The medium of claim 33, in which the medical device is an
automated external defibrillator.
43. A computer-readable medium comprising instructions for causing
a programmable processor to: receive an interrogation for emergency
medical device status information; acquire the status information
from a self-diagnostic routine; and communicate the status
information to a remote unit.
44. The medium of claim 43, the instructions further causing the
processor to present at least a portion of the status information
to a person.
45. The medium of claim 43, in which the instructions causing the
processor to receive the interrogation for status information
comprise instructions causing the processor to receive the
interrogation from the remote unit.
46. The medium of claim 43, in which the instructions causing the
processor to receive the interrogation for status information
comprise instructions causing the processor to receive the
interrogation from a docking station.
47. The medium of claim 43, in which the instructions causing the
processor to communicate the status information to the remote unit
comprise instructions causing the processor to establish
communication with the remote unit via a communication network.
48. The medium of claim 47, in which the communication network
comprises at least one of an alarm network, a telephone network, a
local area network, a cellular network, a wireless network, a wide
area network, a global computer network and an integrated services
digital network.
49. The medium of claim 43, in which the instructions causing the
processor to communicate the status information to the remote unit
comprise instructions causing the processor to establish
communication with a docking station in accordance with one or more
wireless communication protocols.
50. The medium of claim 49, in which the wireless communication
protocols comprise at least one of Bluetooth, IEEE 802.11a, IEEE
802.11b, IEEE 802.11g, and the HomeRF standard.
51. The medium of claim 43, in which emergency medical device
status information comprises at least one of data indicative of a
fault, data indicative of low battery power, data indicative of
battery failure, and data indicative of the end of a shelf life of
a component of the medical device.
52. A computer-readable medium comprising instructions for causing
a programmable processor to: receive emergency medical device
status information from a plurality of emergency medical devices;
and present at least a portion of the status information to a
person.
53. The medium of claim 52, the instructions further causing the
processor to generate an alarm as a function of the status
information from at least one of the medical devices.
54. The medium of claim 52, the instructions further causing the
processor to transmit an interrogation for the status information
to the medical devices.
55. The medium of claim 52, the instructions further causing the
processor to transmit an interrogation for the status information
to at least one docking station associated with at least one of the
medical devices.
56. The medium of claim 52, the instructions further causing the
processor to: receive docking station status information from a
docking station associated with at least one of the medical
devices; and present at least a portion of the docking station
status information to a person.
57. The medium of claim 52, the instructions further causing the
processor to record the status information in a status log.
58. The medium of claim 52, in which emergency medical device
status information comprises at least one of data indicative of a
fault, data indicative of low battery power, data indicative of
battery failure, and data indicative of the end of a shelf life of
a component of the medical device.
59. A computer-readable medium comprising instructions for causing
a programmable processor to: transmit an interrogation for status
information to a plurality of emergency medical devices; and
receive the status information from the medical devices in response
to the interrogation.
60. The medium of claim 59, the instructions further causing the
processor to generate an alarm as a function of the status
information from at least one medical device.
61. The medium of claim 59, the instructions further causing the
processor to present at least a portion of the received status
information to a person.
62. The medium of claim 59, the instructions further causing the
processor to: transmit an interrogation for docking station status
information to a plurality of docking stations; and receive the
docking station status information from the docking stations in
response to the interrogation for docking station status
information.
63. The medium of claim 62, the instructions further causing the
processor to present at least a portion of the docking station
status information to a person.
64. The medium of claim 59, the instructions further causing the
processor to record the status information in a status log.
65. A device comprising: an electrical source to generate a shock
to defibrillate a heart; at least two electrodes to deliver the
shock to the heart; a processor to execute a self-diagnostic
routine and to acquire status information as a function of
executing the self-diagnostic routine; and a communication module
to receive an interrogation for the status information and to
communicate the status information to a second device.
66. The device of claim 65, in which the device is an automated
external defibrillator.
67. The device of claim 65, in which the device is portable.
68. The device of claim 65, in which the communication module is
configured to communicate with at least one of a docking station
and a network in accordance with one or more wireless communication
protocols.
69. The device of claim 68, in which the wireless communication
protocols comprise at least one of Bluetooth, IEEE 802.11a, IEEE
802.11b, IEEE 802.11g, and the HomeRF standard.
70. A device comprising: a processor to execute a self-diagnostic
routine and to acquire status information as a function of
executing the self-diagnostic routine; and a communication module
to receive an interrogation for the status information and to
communicate the status information to a second device, wherein the
device is a portable medical device.
71. The device of claim 70, in which the device is an external
defibrillator.
72. The device of claim 70, in which the device is an automated
external defibrillator.
73. The device of claim 70, in which the communication module is
configured to communicate with at least one of a docking station
and a network in accordance with one or more wireless communication
protocols.
74. The device of claim 73, in which the wireless communication
protocols comprise at least one of Bluetooth, IEEE 802.11a, IEEE
802.11b, IEEE 802.11g, and the HomeRF standard.
75. A device comprising: a docking element to retain an emergency
medical device; a communication module to receive first status
information from the medical device; a processor to execute a
self-diagnostic routine and acquire second status information as a
function of executing the self-diagnostic routine; and an output to
present at least a portion of the first status information and at
least a portion of the second status information.
76. The device of claim 75, in which the communication module is
configured to receive the first status information in accordance
with one or more wireless communication protocols.
77. The device of claim 76, in which the wireless communication
protocols comprise at least one of Bluetooth, IEEE 802.11a, IEEE
802.11b, IEEE 802.11g, and the HomeRF standard.
78. The device of claim 75, in which the communication module is
configured to transmit at least a portion of the first status
information and at least a portion of the second status information
to a remote unit.
79. The device of claim 75, in which the docking element comprises:
a compartment sized to receive the medical device; and a door to
secure the medical device inside the compartment.
80. A device comprising: a communication module to receive status
information from a plurality of emergency medical devices; and an
output device to present at least a portion of the received status
information to an operator.
81. The device of claim 80, in which the communication module is
further configured to transmit an interrogation to the medical
devices.
82. The device of claim 80, in which the communication module is
further configured to receive docking station status information
from a plurality of docking stations.
83. The device of claim 80, further comprising memory to record the
received status information.
84. The device of claim 80, further comprising a processor to
generate an alarm as a function of the received status
information.
85. A system comprising: a plurality of emergency medical devices;
and a remote unit that interrogates at least one medical device in
the plurality over a communication network and that receives status
information in response to the interrogation.
86. The system of claim 85, in which at least one medical device in
the plurality is portable.
87. The system of claim 85, in which at least one medical device in
the plurality is an external defibrillator.
88. The system of claim 85, in which at least one medical device in
the plurality is an automated external defibrillator.
89. The system of claim 85, in which the communication network
comprises at least one of an alarm network, a telephone network, a
local area network, a cellular network, a wireless network, a wide
area network, a global computer network and an integrated services
digital network.
90. The system of claim 85, further comprising a docking station
sized to receive at least one medical device in the plurality.
91. The system of claim 90, in which the remote unit is further
configured to interrogate the docking station over the
communication network and to receive docking station status
information in response to the interrogation of the docking
station.
Description
[0001] This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional
Application Serial No. 60/409,734, filed Sep. 11, 2002, the entire
content of which is incorporated herein by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The invention relates to medical devices, and in particular,
to collection of status data generated by an emergency medical
device or associated apparatus.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Cardiac arrest is a life-threatening medical condition that
may be treated with external defibrillation. External
defibrillation includes applying electrodes to the patient's chest
and delivering an electric shock to the patient to depolarize the
patient's heart and restore normal sinus rhythm. The chance that a
patient's heart can be successfully defibrillated increase
significantly if a defibrillation pulse is applied quickly.
[0004] Until recently, individuals such as paramedics, emergency
medical technicians, police officers and others trained in
defibrillation techniques used defibrillators, but the general
public did not. In some cases, the patient's need is urgent and the
patient cannot wait for trained personnel to arrive. In recognition
of the need for prompt treatment, automated external defibrillators
(AEDs) are becoming more commonplace, and are available in venues
such as health clubs and auditoriums. In some large venues, such as
office buildings, factories, airports and sports arenas, several
AEDs may be deployed throughout the venue. In some venues, hundreds
of AEDs may be deployed. Ready availability of AEDs may mean that
patients may get needed treatment promptly, and need not wait for
emergency personnel to arrive. As a result, more lives may be
saved.
[0005] As part of ordinary security and maintenance procedures,
AEDs deployed in a venue may be periodically checked. A responsible
person, such as security personnel, may be assigned to make an
inspection of each AED and confirm that the device is operational.
The inspection may be relatively simple, because many AEDs perform
one or more automatic self-diagnostic routines and provide one or
more status indications that the device is operational or in need
of service.
[0006] As part of the inspection, the responsible person should
regularly look at each AED and check the associated status
indicators. The responsible person may also be required to prepare
and maintain records showing that the inspections have been
performed, as well as the status and repair history of the AEDs. In
a venue having several AEDs, the cost of inspection may be
significant. A deployed AED may be unprepared to provide
defibrillation therapy if the responsible person makes an
inspection error. In addition, a deployed AED may be unprepared to
provide defibrillation therapy if a fault or other problem occurs
following an inspection.
[0007] Because AEDs may be deployed in venues accessible to the
public, AEDs may be prone to mischief or misuse. Theft, inadvertent
or inappropriate use, tampering, vandalism and the like may be
important concerns. Because of these concerns, AEDs may be deployed
with a docking station that deters mischief or misuse. An example
of such a docking station is a wall-mounted cabinet with a glass
window and an alarm system. The alarm may be triggered when the
door of the cabinet is opened or if the AED is removed.
[0008] Many of the concerns applicable to AEDs may be applicable to
other emergency medical devices as well. For example, there may be
benefits associated with deploying medical devices such as a stroke
apparatus, a chest compression device, or a first aid device,
throughout a venue. These medical devices, like AEDs, may be
inspected as part of ordinary security and maintenance procedures.
To deter mischief or misuse, the medical devices may be deployed
with docking stations.
SUMMARY
[0009] In general, the invention is directed to management of
status information from a plurality of emergency medical devices,
such as AEDs. A system for managing status information may include
one or more medical devices associated with one or more docking
stations. A medical device, or a docking station, or both, may
acquire status information and may communicate the status
information to a remote unit. The remote unit may be a status
monitor that receives status information from a plurality of
medical devices and docking stations in a system.
[0010] The remote unit provides a central point for collecting and
aggregating status information pertaining to medical devices and
docking stations in the system. The remote unit may present the
status information to a person via an input/output device, and may
maintain a status log that records the status and repair history of
the devices in the system.
[0011] The remote unit may, in some embodiments, interrogate one or
more medical devices or one or more docking stations in the system.
In response to the interrogation, the interrogated device may
perform a self-diagnostic routine, thereby acquiring status
information about its own operating status. The interrogated device
may transmit the status information to the remote unit.
[0012] The invention is not limited to systems in which every
medical device is associated with a docking station. For practical
reasons that will be described in more detail below, however, it
may be advantageous for a medical device to be associated with a
docking station. It may further be advantageous for the medical
device and the docking station to communicate with one another. The
communication may involve interrogations for status information, as
well as status information itself.
[0013] When the medical device and the docking station communicate,
the docking station may locally present some of the status
information received from the medical device. The docking station
may include one or more output elements, such as a visual display
or annunciator or a speaker, that presents at least a portion of
the status information from the medical device. The docking station
may also present at least a portion of the status information about
itself. A person wishing to perform a routine visual inspection of
a medical device and the associated docking station may readily
obtain status information about both devices by looking at the
output elements on the docking station.
[0014] In one embodiment, the invention is directed to a method
that may be practiced by a docking station. The method comprises
acquiring first status information from a self-diagnostic routine,
acquiring second status information from an emergency medical
device and communicating the first status information and the
second status information to a remote unit. The method may also
include presenting at least a portion of the first status
information and the second status information to a person.
[0015] In another embodiment, the invention is directed to a method
that may be practiced by an emergency medical device. The method
comprises receiving an interrogation for an emergency medical
device status information, acquiring the status information from a
self-diagnostic routine and communicating the status information to
a remote unit.
[0016] In a further embodiment, the invention is directed to
methods that may be practiced by a status monitor. One such method
includes receiving emergency medical device status information from
a plurality of emergency medical devices and presenting at least a
portion of the status information to a person. Another such method
includes transmitting an interrogation for status information to a
plurality of emergency medical devices and receiving the status
information from the medical devices in response to the
interrogation.
[0017] The invention further includes computer-readable media
comprising instructions for causing a programmable processor to
carry out the methods described above.
[0018] In an additional embodiment, the invention is directed to a
device comprising an electrical source to generate a shock to
defibrillate a heart, at least two electrodes to deliver the shock
to the heart, a processor to perform a self-diagnostic routine and
to acquire status information as a function of performing the
self-diagnostic routine, and a communication module to receive an
interrogation for the status information and to communicate the
status information to a second device. The device may be an
AED.
[0019] In another embodiment, the invention presents device that
includes a docking element to retain an emergency medical device, a
communication module to receive first status information from the
medical device, a processor to perform a self-diagnostic routine
and acquire second status information as a function of performing
the self-diagnostic routine, and an output to present at least a
portion of the first status information and at least a portion of
the second status information.
[0020] In an added embodiment, the invention presents a device
comprising a communication module to receive status information
from a plurality of emergency medical devices and an output device
to present at least a portion of the received status information to
an operator. The communication module may be further configured to
transmit an interrogation to one or more of the medical
devices.
[0021] In a further embodiment, the invention is directed to a
system. The system includes a plurality of emergency medical
devices and a remote unit that interrogates at least one medical
device in the plurality over a communication network and that
receives status information in response to the interrogation. The
system may further include a docking station sized to receive at
least one medical device in the plurality.
[0022] The invention may offer one or more advantages. The
invention may be practiced with systems of many configurations. Any
number of docking stations and medical devices may be tracked and
monitored with the invention. The invention may also be practiced
with any number of networks, and may in some cases be integrated
into an existing network in the venue, such as a security network
or a private building maintenance network.
[0023] The invention provides easy monitoring of any number of
medical devices and docking stations deployed throughout a venue.
Numerous features of the invention may allow a person responsible
for inspection to readily observe the status of any device. Visual
inspections of some medical devices and docking stations may be
conducted at a glance. The invention also simplifies record keeping
operations, such as maintenance of a status log.
[0024] Some embodiments of the invention advantageously allocate
energy. In the context of an AED, for example, which needs energy
to provide defibrillation therapy, communication functions that
require substantial energy expenditure may be assigned to a docking
station. In such an arrangement, the docking station may be
principally responsible for communicating with the status monitor,
removing an energy burden on the AED.
[0025] In the event of a problem with any device in the system, the
invention facilitates prompt notification of a responsible person.
The notification may be made by the status monitor and by the
affected devices. In addition, some embodiments of the invention
may provide for interrogation of a medical device or a docking
station, prompting the device to perform a self-diagnostic routine
that may discover a problem not previously observed.
[0026] In an emergency, the invention advantageously may utilize
status information to assist with handling the emergency. For
example, when an operator retrieves a medical device such as an AED
from a docking station, the AED or the docking station may
immediately communicate that fact to the status monitor. A
responsible person may promptly dispatch security or emergency
personnel to the general area in the venue in which the personnel
may be needed.
[0027] The details of one or more embodiments of the invention are
set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below.
Other features, objects, and advantages of the invention will be
apparent from the description and drawings, and from the
claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0028] FIG. 1 is a perspective drawing of an automated external
defibrillator in a cabinet docking station according to an
embodiment of the invention.
[0029] FIG. 2 is a perspective drawing of an automated external
defibrillator in a bracket docking station according to another
embodiment of the invention.
[0030] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a system for managing
status information from a plurality of medical devices such as
AEDs, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0031] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram illustrating interrogation of a
medical device according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0032] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating interrogation of a
medical device according to an alternate embodiment of the
invention.
[0033] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating techniques for
acquiring, transmitting and presenting status information that may
be practiced by a docking station according to an embodiment of the
invention.
[0034] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram illustrating techniques for
acquiring, transmitting and presenting status information that may
be practiced by a medical device such as an AED according to an
embodiment of the invention.
[0035] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram illustrating techniques for
managing status information that may be practiced by a status
monitor according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0036] FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating variations in the
system depicted in FIG. 3, consistent with various embodiments of
the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0037] FIG. 1 is a perspective drawing of an automated external
defibrillator (AED) 10 in an exemplary docking station 12. AED 10
and docking station 12 are illustrative of the practice of the
invention, and for simplicity, the invention will be described in
terms of AEDs and docking stations. The invention is not limited to
docking stations and AEDs, however, but may include other devices
including other types of emergency medical devices.
[0038] In the example of FIG. 1, docking station 12 is a cabinet,
comprising a compartment 14 that receives AED 10 and a hinged door
16 that closes to secure AED 10 inside compartment 14. AED 10 is
portable. When an operator needs to use AED 10, the operator may
open door 16 and lift AED 10 from compartment 14. Cabinet 12 also
includes a base 18.
[0039] AED 10 is capable of administering defibrillation therapy to
a patient. AED 10 includes an electrical source (not shown) that
can generate one or more shocks to defibrillate the heart of a
patient. The shocks may be delivered to the patient via two
electrodes (not shown), which may be hand-held electrode paddles or
adhesive electrode pads placed externally on the skin of the
patient.
[0040] The electrodes may be packaged in a sealed pouch (not
shown), such as an airtight foil bag, which protects the electrodes
from the environment. The electrodes may include substances that
may degrade or dry out when exposed to air. For example, the
electrodes may include a hydrogel layer that hydrates the patient's
skin, forms an interface with the patient, promotes adhesion of the
electrodes to the skin and reduces the risk of burns. The
electrodes may be stored in a pouch to prevent the hydrogel from
drying out and losing its desirable properties. The pouch may be
stowed inside AED 10 or inside cabinet 12.
[0041] An operator using AED 10 use typically opens the pouch,
retrieves the electrodes and places the electrodes in the correct
positions on the patient's chest. In some models of AED 10, the
operator may also couple the electrodes to AED 10 by plugging an
electrical connector into a receptacle on AED 10.
[0042] Electrodes of the kind described above are intended for use
on one occasion. Following use, the electrodes are discarded, and
AED 10 may be supplied with a fresh pouch. Even if the electrodes
are not used, however, the electrodes may have a shelf life. The
pouch should be replaced when the shelf life expires.
[0043] AED 10 may include an internal power source (not shown). The
power source for many models of AED 10 is a battery, although some
models of AED may be capable of being "line powered," i.e., plugged
into an electrical outlet. Battery power is advantageous in many
respects. First, in many situations, the patient may be far from an
electrical outlet. In those situations, AED 10 may rely upon a
battery to supply the energy for the defibrillation shocks. Second,
a power supply in the form of a battery makes AED 10 portable and
useful in a wider variety of emergency situations.
[0044] AED 10 also comprises an energy storage device (not shown),
such as one or more capacitors, and a charging circuit (not shown),
such as a flyback charger. When a defibrillation shock is needed,
the charging circuit transfers energy from the power supply to the
energy storage device. When the energy stored in the energy storage
device reaches a desired level, AED 10 is ready to deliver
defibrillation therapy. The therapy may be delivered automatically
or manually.
[0045] AED 10 may further include a microprocessor (not shown) that
controls various functions of AED 10. The microprocessor may govern
charging of the energy storage device, for example, or may evaluate
heart rhythms of the patient sensed via the electrodes, or may
deliver the defibrillation shocks automatically. The microprocessor
may further execute a routine that performs a self-diagnostic test
of AED 10 and acquire status information as a function of
performing the self-diagnostic routine.
[0046] Status information pertains to the operating status of AED
10 and its attendant components. Status information may include,
for example, data indicative of AED 10 being in good working order.
Status information may also include data indicative of a fault or
potential problem with AED 10, such as data indicative of a failed
or damaged component. Data indicating that the battery is low, or
that the battery is failing to hold a charge, are additional
examples of AED status information. Status information may also
include data indicating that the electrodes or other components are
nearing the end of their shelf life.
[0047] AED 10 may include one or more output elements 20 that
convey status information to a person. As shown in FIG. 1, output
elements 20 include visual annunciators, such as light-emitting
diodes (LEDs) that illuminate or darken to convey status
information. Output elements 20 may, for example, indicate whether
AED 10 is in good working order, whether the battery is ready, or
whether AED 10 needs service. Output elements 20 may include other
or additional annunciators, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD),
a cathode ray tube (CRT) display, a strobe, or a speaker that is
capable of delivering an audible signal or a spoken message.
[0048] Hinged door 16 of cabinet 12 includes a window 22. When AED
10 rests in compartment 14 and door 16 is closed, output elements
20 may be visible through window 22. Base 18 of cabinet 12 also
includes AED status output elements 24 that may be redundant of
output elements 20 on AED 10. In other words, output elements 24 of
cabinet 12 may convey the same status information as output
elements 20 of AED 11. Output elements 24 may also convey AED
status information in a different way than that conveyed by AED 10.
Cabinet 12 may, for example, employ a simplified "OK-NOT OK"
indicator system, while AED output elements 20 may be more specific
about the nature of any problems.
[0049] The redundant presentation of status information may be
advantageous in several respects. First, instead of facilitating
observation of output elements 20 on AED 10, window 22 may impede
observation of output elements 20. Because AED 10 may be recessed
in compartment 14, for example, output elements 20 may not be
visible through window 22 from all angles. Further, window 22 may
be cracked or dirty or reflective of light sources that wash out
the visual annunciators. Output elements 24 may also be larger or
brighter than output elements 20, allowing the status information
to be perceived from a greater distance or from a wider angle of
view. Thus, a person wishing to perform a routine visual check on
the status of AED 10 may obtain status information about AED 10
more readily.
[0050] Cabinet 12 presents status information via output elements
24 upon receiving the status information from AED 10. As will be
described in more detail below, AED 10 may establish a
communication link with cabinet 12, and may communicate status
information to cabinet 12. The communication link may be, but need
not be, wireless.
[0051] In addition to AED status output elements 24, base 18
includes docking station status output elements 26. Docking station
status output elements 26 may include visual annunciators 28, a
speaker 30 and a display screen 32. Visual annunciators 28 may
comprise, for example, LEDs. Display screen 32 may comprise, for
example, an LCD or CRT display.
[0052] Docking station status output elements 26 convey status
information that is not redundant of status information conveyed by
AED status output elements 24. The status information conveyed by
docking station status output elements 26 may include status
information pertaining to AED 10, status information pertaining to
cabinet 12, or status information pertaining to other AEDs. As will
be described below, AED 10, or cabinet 12, or both, may be part of
a networked system of AEDs, and the status information conveyed by
docking station status output elements 26 may include status
information pertaining to the networked system of AEDs.
[0053] Visual annunciators 28 may convey, for example, that cabinet
12 is in good working order, or that the communication interfaces
of cabinet 12 are working properly. Speaker 30 may convey, for
example, an alarm signaling that door 16 is open or ajar, or verbal
instructions concerning use of AED 10 or cabinet 12. Display screen
32 may convey any information in text or visual form, such as a
pictorial instruction for opening door 16, or a text warning that
AED 10 is out of service, along with directions for finding the
nearest AED in the network that is in service.
[0054] FIG. 2 is a perspective drawing of another AED 40 in another
exemplary docking station 42. In FIG. 2, docking station 42 is a
wall-mounted bracket, rather than a cabinet. Bracket 42 includes a
shaped base 44 that receives AED 40 and supports AED 40. Bracket 42
also includes and clasps 46, which, in cooperation with base 44,
retain AED 40 and secure AED 40 to bracket 42. Clasps 46 may be
flexible. When an operator needs to use AED 40, the operator may
pull AED 40 from clasps 46 and lift AED 40 out of base 44.
[0055] AED 40 may include one or more output elements 48 that
convey status information about AED 40, and base 44 may include AED
status output elements 50 that may be redundant of output elements
48. As will be described in more detail below, AED 40 may establish
a communication link with bracket 42. AED 40 may communicate status
information to bracket 42, which bracket 42 may present via output
elements 50 on base 44.
[0056] Output elements 48 and 50 may be similar to output elements
20 and 24 shown in FIG. 1. Although output elements 48 are not
recessed in a compartment or obscured by a window, output elements
48 may be small or difficult to read at a distance. Output elements
50 may be more easily perceived from a greater distance or from a
wider angle of view, allowing a person to readily obtain status
information about AED 40.
[0057] Base 42 includes docking station status output elements 52.
Like docking station status output elements 26 shown in FIG. 1,
docking station status output elements 52 may include visual
annunciators 54, a speaker 56 and a display screen 58.
[0058] The embodiments of an AED and a docking station shown in
FIGS. 1 and 2 are for purposes of illustration. The invention is
not limited to the arrangements depicted. For example, the
invention encompasses embodiments in which the docking station
output elements are positioned above the AED, or on multiple sides
of the AED. The invention encompasses embodiments that include more
or fewer output elements than are shown. The invention also
encompasses embodiments that include docking elements to retain the
AED other than clasps, shaped bases, cabinets and doors. Docking
elements may include clamps, lids, covers, trays, shelves, drawers,
latches, and the like.
[0059] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example system 60
in which a status monitor 62 receives status information from an
AED 64 and a docking station 66. AED 64 and docking station 66 may
be either of the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2, but are not
limited to those embodiments.
[0060] In the embodiment of system 60 shown in FIG. 3, status
monitor 62 is a unit that is remote from AED 64 and docking station
66, but is in two-way communication with AED 64 and docking station
66. Status monitor 62 may transmit an interrogation for status
information to AED 64 or docking station 66. AED 64 or docking
station 66 may perform a self-diagnostic routine to acquire the
status information, and may communicate the status information to
status monitor 62.
[0061] In system 60, AED 64 does not communicate with status
monitor 62 directly. Rather, AED 64 communicates with status
monitor 62 via docking station 66. In particular, AED 64 includes a
communication interface 68 that establishes a communication link
with a communication interface 70 in docking station 66.
Communication interface 70 in turn establishes a communication link
with a communication interface 72 in status monitor 62 over a
network 74. Similarly, interrogations from status monitor 62 to AED
64 are communicated through docking station 66.
[0062] Network 74 may be any network. Network 74 may comprise, for
example, a public switched telephone network, a cellular telephone
network, a local area network, a wide area network, a global
computer network such as the Internet, an integrated services
digital network, or the like. In some venues in which AED 64 and
docking station 66 may be deployed, the venue may include a
dedicated security network or a private building maintenance
network. Either may serve as network 74. Network 74 may include
hard-wired electrical or optical communication links, wireless
links, or a combination of both.
[0063] System 60 is not limited to a single AED 64 or a single
docking station 66. Other docking stations 76A-76N may communicate
with remote status monitor 62 via network 74. In particular, status
monitor 62 may receive status information from docking stations
76A-76N and from AEDs (not shown) associated with docking stations
76A-76N. Status monitor 62 may also transmit interrogations to
docking stations 76A-76N and the associated AEDs. AED 64 and
docking station 66 are representative of other AEDs and docking
stations in system 60.
[0064] System status module 78 in status monitor 62 provides a
central point for collecting and aggregating status information
pertaining to AEDs and docking stations in system 60. In this way,
system status module 78 monitors the AEDs and docking stations in
system 60. System status module 78 is a processor that may
summarize the aggregated status information and present the status
information via an input/output device 80. In addition, system
status module 78 may interrogate one or more AEDs or one or more
docking stations in system 60, and may present to a person status
information received in response to the interrogation via
input/output device 80. Input/output device 80 may comprise one or
more display screens, keyboards, audible alarms, LEDs, LCDs,
printers, touch screens, pointing devices, and the like.
Input/output device 80 may also comprise a communication device
configured to establish a communication link with another person or
device not shown in FIG. 3. For example, when status information
from AED 64 indicates at problem that may require a professional
service call, input/output device 80 may automatically summon the
service provider.
[0065] System status module 78 may further store information
pertaining to the status of system 60, or any AEDs or docking
stations in system 60, in memory 82. Information stored in memory
82 may include, for example, routine status information, data
pertaining to repair histories, and tracking data showing the
locations of devices.
[0066] In a typical venue, system status module 78 is remote from
AEDs or docking stations in system 60. AEDs and docking stations
are ordinarily readily accessible, and in some venues, may be
accessible to members of the general public. System status module
78, by contrast, is typically housed in a secure location and is
not readily accessible.
[0067] In one illustrative embodiment, a personal computer may
operate as system status module 78, input/output device 80, and
memory 82. In another illustrative embodiment, a portable device
such as a pager or personal digital assistant (PDA) may operate as
input/output device 80, with system status module 78 and memory 82
located in a different physical location. In this embodiment,
system status module 78 and input/output device 80 may communicate
via a communication link such as a wireless link or a telephone
line. System status module 78 and input/output device 80 may also
communicate over network 74.
[0068] A responsible person, such as a security supervisor, may
observe the status of any AED or docking station in system 60 by
observing input/output device 80. Input/output device 80 may notify
the responsible person that all AEDs and docking stations in system
60 are operational, for example, or may notify the responsible
person when an AED or a docking station in system 60 is in need of
attention. When an AED or a docking station in system 60 is in need
of attention, input/output device 80 may present the responsible
person with information such as the location of the device in
question and the nature of the problem. Input/output device 80 may
further present the responsible person with status information
received from the device in response to an interrogation by system
status module 78. Input/output device 80 may also present the
responsible person with data stored in memory 82, such as the
repair history of the device in question.
[0069] AED 64 includes a self-diagnostic module 84 that monitors
the status of AED 64. Self-diagnostic module 84 is a processor that
executes one or more self-diagnostic routines. The self-diagnostic
routines may be initiated by self-diagnostic module 84, or may be
initiated in response to a change in the condition of AED 64, such
as a component malfunction. By execution of a self-diagnostic
routine, self-diagnostic module 84 performs one or more internal
self-tests to acquire status information about the state of
readiness of AED 64. Self-diagnostic module 84 may evaluate and
identify matters that can be customer serviceable, such as battery
or electrode replacement, and matters that may require a
professional service call. AED 64 may record the status information
in memory 86, and may present some or all of the status information
via one or more status indicators 88. When the results of the
self-tests indicate that AED 64 is ready for use, for example,
status indicators 88 may provide a visible or audible indication of
readiness. Status indicators 88 may comprise any of output elements
20 or 48 described in connection with FIGS. 1 and 2.
[0070] AED 64 may further communicate the status information to
docking station 66 via communication interfaces 68 and 70.
Communication between AED 64 and docking station 66 may be by an
communication technique. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, AED 64
and docking station 66 may engage in two-way communication, thereby
enabling AED 64 to receive an interrogation from status monitor 62
or docking station 66.
[0071] Communication between AED 64 and docking station 66 may be
in accordance with one or more wireless communication techniques.
For example, one communication protocol, commonly referred to as
Bluetooth, uses short-range 2.4 GHz radio technology employed to
transport data between devices. Other possible communication
protocols include IEEE 802.11a, 802.11b, and 802.11g, which are
industry standard protocols for wireless networking. Yet another
possible protocol is HomeRF, which was initially designed for
wireless communications between devices and appliances within a
home.
[0072] Communication between AED 64 and docking station 66 may also
communicate via a physical communication link. When docking station
66 receives AED 64, mating electrical or optical components in
docking station 66 and AED 64 may engage, thereby enabling
communication. In addition, AED 64 and docking station 66 may
communicate via a combination of wireless and physical
communication links. Wireless links and physical communication
links both may be implemented so that AED 64 may be quickly and
easily removed from docking station 66 without hindrance.
[0073] Docking station 66 includes a self-diagnostic module 90 that
monitors the status of docking station 66. Self-diagnostic module
90 is a processor that executes a self-diagnostic routine to
perform internal self-tests and to acquire status information about
docking station 66. The self-diagnostic routines may be initiated
by self-diagnostic module 90 or may be initiated in response to a
change in the condition of docking station 66. Self-diagnostic
module 90 may evaluate and identify matters that can be customer
serviceable and matters that may require a professional service
call.
[0074] In addition, self-diagnostic module 90 may collect,
aggregate or interpret status information received from AED 64. In
some circumstances, self-diagnostic module 90 may use status
information from AED 64 and from self-tests to pinpoint the source
of a problem. Self-diagnostic module 90 may record the status
information in memory 92, and may present some or all of the status
information via one or more status indicators 94. Status indicators
94 may include AED status output elements 24, such as AED status
output elements 24 and 50 in FIGS. 1 and 2, that convey AED status
information redundantly. Status indicators 94 may also include
output elements such as docking station status output elements 26
and 52 in FIGS. 1 and 2. Status indicators 94 may convey status
information pertaining to AED 64, status information pertaining to
docking station 66, or status information pertaining to other AEDs
or docking stations in system 60.
[0075] Docking station 66 further includes a power source (not
shown in FIG. 3). Unlike AED 64, which is portable and is usually
battery-powered, docking station 66 is stationary and may be
line-powered. System 60 may include several docking stations 66,
76A-76N deployed throughout a venue, and the docking stations may
be wall-mounted or otherwise located for access to the power grid.
The invention is not limited to line-powered docking stations,
however, but includes docking stations having power sources such as
batteries or solar cells.
[0076] An advantage of system 60 shown in FIG. 3 is an efficient
use of energy. It may be undesirable to devote too much energy from
the power supply in AED 64 to communication with docking station 66
or status monitor 62. AED 64 may be battery powered, and the
battery power may be needed to supply the energy that may be
delivered to a patient as a lifesaving defibrillation shock.
Accordingly, the communication resources of AED 64 may be scaled
back. When AED 64 is engaged with docking station 66, such as is
depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2, AED 64 may not need to expend much
energy to communicate with docking station 66.
[0077] Docking station 66, by contrast, does not need to conserve
energy to provide defibrillation therapy. Moreover, a line-powered
docking station 66 may be relieved of the energy constraints that
affect a battery-powered AED 64. Accordingly, docking station 66
may devote more energy to communication. In system 60, docking
station 66 is responsible for communicating with status monitor 62
and for supplying status monitor 62 with status information about
AED 64 and docking station 66. Docking station 66 is also
responsible for receiving interrogations from status monitor 62 and
relaying interrogations to AED 64.
[0078] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram illustrating an interrogation in a
system such as system 60. Status monitor 62 may interrogate AED 64
by transmitting an interrogation for status information (100).
Status monitor 62 may initiate the interrogation in response to a
command from a responsible person, or status monitor 62 may
initiate the interrogation automatically. An automatic
interrogation may be part of a routine periodic interrogation, for
example, or the automatic interrogation may be in response to
status information received from AED 64, docking station 66 or
another device in system 60.
[0079] Docking station 66 receives the interrogation and
communicates the interrogation to AED 64 (102). In response, the
self-diagnostic module 84 of AED 64 executes a self-diagnostic
routine to acquire status information about AED 64 (104). AED 64
communicates the status information to docking station 66 (106),
which in turn conveys the status information to status monitor 62
(108). Status monitor 62 receives the status information (110).
[0080] Status monitor 62 may also interrogate docking station 66 by
transmitting an interrogation for status information (112). As with
interrogations for AED status information, status monitor 62 may
initiate the interrogation in response to a command or
automatically. Docking station 66 receives the interrogation
executes a self-diagnostic routine to acquire status information
about docking station 66 (114). Docking station 66 communicates the
status information to status monitor 62 (116). Status monitor 62
receives the status information (118).
[0081] When status monitor 62 receives the AED status information
and the docking station status information, status monitor may
update a status log (120). The status log, which may be stored in
memory 82, may include status information pertaining to the
readiness of AED 64 and docking station 66. The status log may also
record corrective measures that are indicated or that have been
taken. When status information received in response to an
interrogation indicates a matter requiring prompt attention, status
monitor 62 may generate an alarm.(122) to notify the responsible
person that corrective action may be required.
[0082] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating an alternative
interrogation technique in a system such as system 60. FIG. 5 is
similar to FIG. 4, with a principal difference being that, in FIG.
5, diagnostic operations of AED 64 and docking station 66 are
performed in parallel. Status monitor 62 may communicate an
interrogation to docking station 66 (130). The interrogation may
request AED status information, docking station status information,
or status information from both devices.
[0083] Upon receipt of the interrogation, docking station 66
generates an interrogation for AED status information, and submits
the interrogation to AED 64 (132). In response to the
interrogation, AED 64 executes a self-diagnostic routine to acquire
AED status information (134), and communicates the status
information to docking station 66 (136). In parallel, docking
station 66 carries out self-diagnostic tests to acquire docking
station status information (138). Docking station 66 communicates
the status information to status monitor 62 (140), and status
monitor 62 receives the status information (142). Status monitor
may update the status log (144) as described above, and may
generate an alarm (146) when appropriate.
[0084] The techniques depicted in FIGS. 4 and 5 may be performed
with several devices in system 60. Status monitor 62 may, for
example, submit simultaneous interrogations to all AEDs and docking
stations in system 60. Status monitor 62 may also interrogate AEDs
and docking stations in system 60 in turn.
[0085] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating operation of a docking
station in a system such as system 60. Upon receipt of an
interrogation (150) from a status monitor, the docking station
executes a self-diagnostic routine (152) and acquires status
information pertaining to the docking station (154). The
interrogation (150), however, is optional. The docking station may
execute a self-diagnostic routine (152) and acquire status
information (154) without an interrogation. The docking station may
execute a self-diagnostic routine (152) on a periodic basis, for
example, or in response to a detected fault or other problem in the
docking station or the AED associated with the docking station.
[0086] The docking station may also interrogate the AED associated
with the docking station (156), by generating an interrogation for
AED status information or by communicating an interrogation to the
AED received from a status monitor. The docking station acquires
AED status information (158) from the AED. The interrogation from
the docking station (156) is optional, and the docking station may
acquire AED status information (158) without an interrogation. The
docking station may acquire AED status information (158) on a
periodic basis, for example, or in response to a detected problem
reported by the AED.
[0087] The docking station may communicate the status information,
which may include docking station status information and AED status
information, to a remote unit such as the status monitor (160). The
docking station may also present status information locally (162).
The docking station may present AED status information via AED
status output elements and docking station status information via
docking station status output elements.
[0088] The docking station may, in addition, receive status
information from the status monitor. The status information may be
part of an interrogation (150) or may be received in a separate
communication. The docking station may present the status
information received from the status monitor. For example, the
docking station may receive data disclosing the location of the
nearest docking station with an operational AED. In the event that
the docking station detects a problem with the operational status
of itself or its associated AED, the docking station may present
the location of the nearest docking station with an operational AED
via a display screen. As a result, an operator needing an AED and
finding an AED that is out of service may be directed to a nearby
docking station having an AED that is in service.
[0089] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram illustrating operation of an
emergency medical device such as an AED in a system such as system
60. Upon receipt of an interrogation (170) from a status monitor or
a docking station, the AED executes a self-diagnostic routine (172)
and acquires status information from the self-diagnostic routine
(174). The interrogation (170) is optional, and the AED may execute
a self-diagnostic routine (172) and acquire status information
(174) without an interrogation. The AED may execute a
self-diagnostic routine (172) on a periodic basis, for example, or
in response to a detected problem in the AED. In some
circumstances, the AED may execute a self-diagnostic routine (172)
in response to a detected problem in the docking station.
[0090] The AED may communicate the status information to a remote
unit such as a status monitor (176). The AED may communicate the
information to the status monitor directly, or indirectly, e.g.,
via the docking station. The AED may also present status
information locally (178) via one or more output elements.
[0091] As noted above, a docking station or an AED may acquire and
transmit status information to a remote unit such as a status
monitor in response to an interrogation, or may do so without an
interrogation. In a typical implementation, it is desirable that
the docking station, AED and status monitor have current,
consistent status information. In the event of a change in the
status by an AED, for example, it is desirable that the docking
station associated with the AED and the status monitor receive the
AED status information promptly. In this way, the docking station
and the status monitor may promptly reflect the true status of the
AED. A responsible person may observe the same status information
from the status monitor, from the docking station, or from the AED.
The status monitor may also follow up with an interrogation to
assure that the change in status is not a false alarm.
[0092] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram illustrating operation of a status
monitor in a system such as system 60. The status monitor may
transmit one or more interrogations to one or more AEDs or one or
more docking stations in the system (180) and may receive status
information in response (182). The interrogation (180) is optional,
and the AEDs or docking stations may transmit status information
without an interrogation, for reasons such as those described
above.
[0093] The received status information may include an alarm
condition. An alarm condition may be a function of the status
information, e.g., any status information that reflects a problem
or other need for prompt attention. When the received status
information includes an alarm condition (184), the status monitor
may generate an alarm (186) to alert a responsible person to the
need for prompt attention. The alarm may include status information
received from an AED or a docking station that may indicate the
nature of the problem.
[0094] An alarm condition may also exist when the received status
information is routine and indicative of no problems. For example,
an alarm condition may exist when the expiration date lapses for
batteries in a particular AED. The status monitor may generate an
alarm (186) to alert a responsible person to the need to replace
the batteries in that AED.
[0095] Status information, including alarm conditions, may be
stored in memory (188). In this way, the status monitor helps the
responsible person maintain a status log showing the status and
repair history of the devices in the system. The status monitor may
also present the status information so that the responsible person
may have access to at least some of the status information
pertaining to the devices in the system. The presented status
information may include, for example, a summary of the device's
location and operational status, such as "ready," "out of service,"
"door open" or "in use."
[0096] The techniques depicted in FIGS. 4-8 are not necessarily
limited to devices in system 60 shown in FIG. 3, but may be adapted
to other systems as well. FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating
another example system 200, in which status monitor 62 receives
status information from a plurality of emergency medical devices
and docking stations via network 74. System 200 is similar to
system 60 in many respects. In system 200, however, AED 64
communicates with status monitor 62 directly, rather than via
docking station 66. AED communication interface 68 is coupled to
network 74 and to docking station communication interface 70. In
this arrangement, docking station 66 communicates with status
monitor 62 via AED 64.
[0097] FIG. 9 also illustrates that a system may include two-way
communication and one-way communication. For example, communication
interface 70 of docking station 66 may receive one-way
communication from status indicator 88 in AED 64. One-way
communication may include, for instance, sensing whether an
annunciator on AED 64 is illuminated or not.
[0098] FIG. 9 also illustrates how a docking station 202 and an
associated AED 204 may communicate with status monitor 62 directly,
with neither docking station 202 nor AED 204 serving as a
communication intermediary. Docking station 202 and AED 204 may
communicate with one another via communication interfaces (not
shown). In system 200, status monitor 62 may communicate with any
number of docking stations and AEDs, directly or via one or more
communication intermediaries.
[0099] Advantageously, the invention is not limited to any
particular system. Rather, the invention may be practiced with
systems of limitless configurations. Any number of docking stations
and AEDs may be tracked and monitored with the invention.
[0100] Moreover, the invention is not limited to docking stations
and AEDs, but may include any emergency medical device. For
example, the invention may be practiced with a portable stroke
apparatus, or a chest compression device, or a first aid kit, or
other medical device. The invention may be practiced with an
external defibrillator that is not an AED. A docking station may be
associated with any of these medical devices. The docking stations
themselves may include any assortment of cabinets, chests,
brackets, clasps, bins, closets, kiosks, pedestals and other
retaining devices that may be associated with one or more medical
devices. In some embodiments, a single docking station may be
associated with two or more medical devices. The invention may be
practiced in a system that includes a variety of docking stations
and a variety of medical devices.
[0101] The invention may also be practiced with any number of
networks. The invention may be integrated into an existing security
network or a private building maintenance network, for example. The
invention does not require that all communication links be two-way
links. The invention may be practiced with any combination of
communication links. In some embodiments, the paths of
communication may be restricted, e.g., to prevent misuse or
inadvertent or improper programming of a medical device in the
system.
[0102] The invention may provide other advantages as well. A
responsible person may easily monitor the status of any number of
medical devices deployed throughout a venue. Presentation of
medical device status information and docking station status
information at a status monitor may simplify inspection. A
responsible person may, at a glance, determine whether any devices
in the system are out of service or in need of attention. Record
keeping operations, such as maintenance of a status log, are also
simplified by a networked system.
[0103] Inspection operations may be further simplified by the use
of medical device status output elements on a docking station. The
output elements of the docking station may be larger, brighter or
otherwise more easily accessible than the output elements on the
medical device itself. Observation of the output elements of an
AED, for example, may require close inspection, while observation
of the output elements on the docking station may be perceived from
a greater distance or from a wider angle of view. Thus, a
responsible person performing routine visual checks may readily
obtain status information about the devices in the system without a
need for a time-consuming close inspection.
[0104] In the event of a problem with any device in the system, the
invention facilitates prompt notification of the responsible
person. The output elements on the medical devices and the docking
stations may alert the responsible person to the problem, and the
status monitor may also alert the responsible person to the
problem. A remote alert at a monitoring site and a local alert at
the site of the device cooperate to improve the likelihood that the
problem will be noticed and addressed. In addition, some
embodiments of the invention provide for interrogation of a medical
device or a docking station, prompting the device to execute a
self-diagnostic routine that may discover a problem not previously
observed.
[0105] In an emergency, the invention may utilize status
information to assist with handling the emergency. When an operator
retrieves a medical device such as an AED from a docking station,
for example, the docking station may immediately communicate that
fact to the status monitor. A responsible person may promptly
dispatch security or emergency personnel to the general area in
which the personnel may be needed. The docking station may also
issue an audible alarm that may summon security or emergency
personnel to the general site of the emergency. The invention may
also advantageously supply status information to docking stations
that may assist in an emergency, such as the location of the
nearest medical devices that are in service.
[0106] Various embodiments of the invention have been described.
These specific embodiments are illustrative of the practice of the
invention. Various modifications may be made without departing from
the scope of the claims. For example, the invention is not limited
to AEDs and docking stations, but may be practiced with a variety
of medical devices. There may be advantages to deploying the
medical devices with docking stations, e.g., to deter mischief and
to handle energy consuming operations such as communications. The
invention is not limited, however, to medical devices that are
associated with docking stations. The invention may encompass, for
example, a networked set of emergency medical devices, some of
which are associated with no docking station.
[0107] The invention is not limited to systems in which medical
devices or docking stations are deployed in fixed locations. In
some instances, it may be beneficial to deploy a docking station in
a mobile platform, such as an ambulance or a vehicle used by a
security guard. Moreover, the invention includes embodiments in
which a remote unit such as a status monitor is mobile.
[0108] Many examples of communication techniques are described for
communication among medical devices, docking stations and a status
monitor. The invention is not limited to the techniques explicitly
described. Communication may be based upon optical communication
links, magnetic communication links, infrared communication links,
or visual status change detectors. Furthermore, several radio
frequency communication links have been described, but the
invention is not limited to the techniques explicitly described. A
cellular telephone link, for example, may employ any recognized
communication protocol, such as code division multiple access
(CDMA), Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), or General
Packet Radio Service (GPRS).
[0109] Furthermore, the above description is not intended to
describe the exclusive functionality of the devices. For example, a
docking station or a medical device such as an AED may, for
example, maintain a status log separate from the status log, if
any, maintained by the status monitor. A docking station may
additionally serve as a recharging station in which a medical
device may recharge on-board batteries.
[0110] Moreover, the invention includes software to carry out the
techniques described herein. The invention may be embodied as a
computer-readable medium that includes instructions for causing a
programmable processor to carry out the methods described above. A
"computer-readable medium" includes but is not limited to read-only
memory, Flash memory and a magnetic or optical storage medium. The
instructions may be implemented as one or more software modules,
which may be executed by themselves or in combination with other
software.
[0111] The instructions and the media are not necessarily
associated with any particular computer or other apparatus, but may
be carried out by various general-purpose or specialized machines.
The instructions may be distributed among two or more media and may
be executed by two or more machines. The machines may be coupled to
one another directly, or may be coupled through a network.
[0112] The invention may also be embodied as one or more devices
that include logic circuitry to carry out the functions or methods
as described above. The logic circuitry may include a processor
that may be programmable for a general purpose or may be dedicated,
such as microcontroller, a microprocessor, a Digital Signal
Processor (DSP), Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC),
and the like. These and other embodiments are within the scope of
the following claims.
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